Mr. Speaker, I have a return to written question asked by Mr. Bromley on February 2, 2010, regarding details on contracts awarded to former Ministers.

I can confirm the contractors were hired to provide advice regarding GNWT intergovernmental relations at the political level. Of prime concern was our relationship with the federal government. Early and good relations with Ottawa were deemed critical to our efforts on key NWT priorities with the federal government.

Outside contractors bring their own individual experiences and perspectives on these relations and their own unique advice to establish and improve them. It is standard practice for provincial and territorial governments to contract for assistance in this area.

The success of the contractor’s efforts during their work period is evidenced by the good working relationships Ministers and their staff have with federal Ministers offices’ and their staff. This has led to successful funding arrangements for major infrastructure investment in the NWT, and ongoing efforts to promote and advance our key priorities.

The work of the contractors was reported in regular meetings with the Premier and his staff. Details of the work performed by the contractors was outlined and the work was completed per the terms of the contracts. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.